Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. This condition is often caused by improper nail trimming, wearing tight shoes, injury, or a genetic predisposition to curved nails. It most frequently affects the big toe. Symptoms include redness, tenderness along one or both sides of the nail, swelling, and sometimes drainage or pus if the area becomes infected. The toe may feel sore when touched or when pressure is applied from walking or wearing shoes. Infected ingrown nails can become increasingly painful and may lead to more serious complications if left untreated. A podiatrist can relieve discomfort and prevent recurrence by carefully removing the ingrown portion of the nail. In recurring or severe cases, a minor in-office procedure may be done to remove part of the nail root. Proper nail care guidance is also provided. If you are experiencing a painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Patricia Mcilrath, DPM of Health One Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Reading and Rittenhouse, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Prolonged standing at work can lead to ongoing strain on the feet, toes, and ankles, especially when movement is limited. Occupations that require standing in one place for extended periods, such as retail, restaurant, or medical roles, can increase the risk of heel pain, arch fatigue, swollen feet, and joint stiffness. Standing for long periods at work causes pressure to build in the lower limbs, which can affect circulation and muscle function. Foot pain is often worsened by shoes that lack proper support and high heels, which can add extra stress to the forefoot and toes. Over time, this may contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis, bunions, or tendon inflammation. A podiatrist can assess foot structure and gait to determine how prolonged standing is affecting your feet. Treatment may include recommendations for better footwear, the use of custom orthotics to improve foot support, and, in severe cases, surgery to correct structural damage. If you have foot pain from standing at work for long periods of time, it is suggested that you schedule  an appointment with a podiatrist.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Patricia Mcilrath, DPM from Health One Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Reading and Rittenhouse, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A sudden rupture of the achilles tendon is a serious injury that can sometimes be linked to an ankle fracture. The achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone and helps with walking, running, and jumping. When it tears, the force involved can be strong enough to stress the surrounding bones and joints. In certain cases, this trauma may cause small fractures near the ankle, especially if the foot is planted or twisted during the injury. Pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty in walking are common signs of both injuries. Because the symptoms can overlap, imaging is often needed to confirm a fracture. Healing from both a rupture and a fracture may involve immobilization, targeted exercises, or surgery. If you experience a sudden pop in your heel followed by severe pain or swelling, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Patricia Mcilrath, DPM of Health One Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Reading and Rittenhouse, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.